Comparing Bowen Therapy With Ice to Medical Massage for Acute Ankle Sprain (ICE-BOW)

Rehabilitation Centre Zivot

Status: Completed

Conditions: Ankle Sprains

Treatments: Combination Product: Medical Massage

Study type: Observational

Funder types: Other

Identifiers

NCT06675006

B2024

Details and patient eligibility

About

Foot pain is particularly prevalent among older adults, affecting approximately 20% to 37% of men and women aged 45 years and older living in the community. Ankle pain is somewhat less common. This study evaluates the combined impact of cryotherapy (ice application) with Bowen therapy versus traditional medical massage in alleviating symptoms. A total of 41 patients, aged 32-75 years participated and were divided into two treatment groups: one receiving medical massage and ice, and the other Bowen therapy and ice, with three sessions over 15 days. Pain and functionality were measured using the VAS pain scale and Roland-Morris questionnaire. Findings revealed improvements in both groups, with the Bowen therapy group achieving greater pain reduction and functional improvement, suggesting potential advantages of Bowen therapy combined with cryotherapy for managing symptoms.

Enrollment: 40 patients

Sex: All

Volunteers: No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

• Participants aged 32 to 75 years.
• Diagnosed with ankle sprain by a qualified healthcare professional (physiatrist or orthopedist).
• Able to provide informed consent.
• Willing to comply with the study protocol and attend all scheduled therapy sessions.

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of serious spinal pathologies (e.g., cancer, osteoporosis, trauma, or fracture).
• History of significant neurological disorders or conditions affecting mobility.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Previous surgical interventions on the spine or significant other surgeries within the last six months.
• Current use of medications that affect pain perception (e.g., opioids).
• Participation in other therapeutic interventions for low back pain during the study period.

Trial design

40 participants in 2 patient groups

Bowen Therapy with Cryotherapy Group

Description:

This group consists of participants receiving Bowen therapy combined with cryotherapy for the treatment acute ankle sprain. Each session includes a 30-minute Bowen therapy treatment, focusing on gentle, non-invasive movements designed to stimulate the body's healing processes. Cryotherapy involves the application of ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain. Participants in this group will undergo three treatment sessions on days 1, 8, and 15 of the study, with assessments of pain intensity and functional capacity conducted before and after the intervention.

Medical Massage and Cryotherapy Group

Description:

This group consists of participants who receive traditional medical massage for the treatment of acute ankle sprain. Interventions are conducted over three sessions, occurring on days 1, 8, and 15, with each session lasting 30 minutes. The medical massage aims to alleviate pain, improve muscle relaxation, and enhance overall functionality in daily activities. Participants' pain levels and functional capacity are assessed using the VAS pain scale and Roland-Morris questionnaire at both the beginning and end of the study period.

Treatment:

Combination Product: Medical Massage